Videogames at the Museum? Compete in the STEM Video Challenge

Until Wednesday, January 23, 2013, libraries can indicate interest in the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) STEM Video Challenge, a nationwide competition that invites student game makers to show their passion for both playing and making video games.

As part of the contest, IMLS will host up to 20 workshops for youths at selected museums and libraries around the country. These workshops will help museum and library staff build skills to support youth learning and develop students’ ability to participate in the Challenge.

The deadline for indicating interest in hosting a workshop is January 23, 2013, and IMLS will announce the winners in early June 2013. Indicate interest now.

Libraries interested in the workshop will need to provide the following:

A three-hour time-slot after school or on a weekend between February 1 and March 30, 2013

Outreach to youth and likely participation of at least 35 students

Space and resources (staff, youth outreach, and computer lab) to support participation

Optional mentors to provide subject matter expertise (e.g. scientists from the museum who can give kids feedback on science-themed games)

This initiative builds on IMLS’s work on Museums, Libraries, and 21st Century Skills, which challenges museums and libraries to promote effective learning experiences around such 21st Century skills as information and technology literacy, critical thinking, problem solving, and creativity.